Social by Matto

Pizzeria | Shanwick Pl, Edinburgh

In the heart of Edinburgh’s bustling West End, a new dining destination has arrived — Social by Matto. Known for its creative energy, contemporary style, and vibrant atmosphere, this latest venture from the Matto team brings together stunning interior design and distinctive signage to create a truly memorable space. At Solas Signs, we were delighted to help bring this project to life, producing a series of standout illuminated and neon features that add warmth, character, and sophistication to the venue.

Crafting the Centrepiece: Rotating Real Glass Neon and Disco Ball Installation

The undisputed showpiece of Social by Matto is the custom rotating real glass neon and sparkling disco ball installation — a bold and playful statement piece that instantly captures attention. Each section of the neon was meticulously hand-blown and filled with neon gas, producing that unmistakable rich red glow synonymous with classic neon craftsmanship.

The rotating mechanism adds movement and life to the space, transforming the installation into a kinetic artwork that ties into the energy of the restaurant itself. It’s a perfect balance of old-school artistry and modern design thinking — an installation that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

Seamless Design Inside and Out

Beyond the centrepiece, Social by Matto features a range of additional illuminated elements that carry the design language throughout the venue. Inside, a crisp white metal channel neon mounted to the wall spells out “Social”, reinforcing the brand identity in a minimal yet striking way. The glow from the neon softens the space, complementing the restaurant’s warm tones and sophisticated finishes.

Outside, in the St Andrew Square area, we installed a set of illuminated 3D metal letters, creating a sleek and eye-catching exterior feature that continues the visual rhythm of the interior design. These high-quality fabricated elements were engineered for durability while maintaining a refined aesthetic — ensuring the signage performs beautifully in all lighting conditions.

At the main entrance, guests are welcomed by an opal illuminated lightbox built seamlessly into the curved fascia above the door. This was topped with gold-trimmed 3D channel letters, adding an elevated, polished finish that pairs perfectly with the restaurant’s luxurious feel. The careful integration of lighting and architectural elements results in a cohesive entrance that feels both inviting and unmistakably high-end.

A Collaborative Approach to Design

This project represents another successful collaboration between Solas Signs and the Matto team, continuing a creative partnership that has produced several standout projects across Edinburgh. From concept to completion, our focus remained on ensuring every piece of signage complemented the venue’s unique character — not just as a branding tool, but as part of the overall design experience.

Working closely with interior designers and fabricators, we refined every detail to ensure the signage installation aligned with the restaurant’s architectural lines and lighting scheme. The result is a fully integrated environment where each illuminated feature adds to the atmosphere, guiding guests’ attention and enhancing the mood of the space.

Elevating Restaurant Spaces Through Signage

Social by Matto exemplifies how thoughtful signage design can play a key role in shaping a customer’s perception of a brand. In high-end hospitality settings, signage is more than a label — it’s a sensory and emotional cue that reflects the tone of the venue. Through custom materials, real glass neon, and precision lighting design, our work helps translate a brand’s essence into physical form.

From large-scale exterior signage that draws customers in, to intricate interior details that reinforce identity, every element works together to tell a cohesive story. This approach not only strengthens visual identity but also enhances the overall guest experience — creating spaces that feel considered, complete, and memorable.